Laser Output Calibration for Precise Workpiece Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Laser processing apparatuses face inaccuracies in workpiece processing due to shifts in light-emitting element characteristics during repeated use, leading to inconsistent laser output and potential damage to light receiving elements.
Innovation Solution
A laser processing apparatus with a control unit that performs calibration by irradiating a light receiving element and then adjusts laser output based on detection values to ensure accurate processing of workpieces, using a moving mechanism to position the laser element and light receiving element appropriately, and incorporating a diffusion or light reduction element to minimize damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If laser processing is repeatedly performed using a laser element, then productivity is improved, but the characteristics of the light-emitting element shift from the designed value, causing manufacturing precision to deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs a calibration process before actual workpiece processing to measure the laser element's current characteristics. By preliminarily determining the actual light output and wavelength, the system compensates for drift before processing, ensuring manufacturing precision is maintained even after repeated use
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a light receiving element to detect the laser light characteristics and feeds this information back to the control unit. The control unit then adjusts processing parameters based on the detected characteristics, creating a closed-loop feedback system that maintains manufacturing precision throughout repeated operations
2Measurement precision
If the light receiving element is irradiated with high-intensity laser light for calibration, then measurement precision is improved, but the light receiving element may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a diffusing element positioned between the laser element and light receiving element during calibration. This intermediary component scatters the intense laser light, reducing peak intensity while still allowing the light receiving element to detect overall output characteristics, thus preventing damage while maintaining measurement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies diffusing treatment specifically during the calibration phase when high-intensity measurement is needed, but not during normal workpiece processing. This partial application of the diffusing effect allows sufficient measurement precision during calibration while avoiding unnecessary light intensity reduction during actual processing
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The apparatus ensures accurate and uniform processing of workpieces even when laser element characteristics deviate, while reducing damage to light receiving elements by controlling laser intensity and position, thereby maintaining processing quality and extending equipment lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
a light receiving element configured to receive the laser light from the laser element
Implementation Method 2
a diffusing element configured to diffuse the laser light from the laser element
Implementation Method 3
a laser element configured to emit laser light
Data Source
AI summary
A laser processing apparatus includes a stage, a laser element, a light receiving element configured to receive the laser light from the laser element, a moving mechanism configured to change a relative position of the laser element and the stage and a relative position of the laser element and the light receiving element, and a control unit. The control unit performs a first process of controlling the laser element and the moving mechanism to irradiate the light receiving element with laser light in a state where the laser element and the light receiving element face each other, and a second process of controlling the laser element and the moving mechanism to irradiate a workpiece with laser light based on a detection value of the light receiving element in a state where the laser element and the workpiece face each other.